IRVINE Meadow manager Chris Strain feels he might just have found the answer to his prayers after signing central defender Mark Campbell, above, who was released by Queen of the South.

Mark, 34, whose brother Martyn also played at the heart of the Meadow defence, made his debut in the 2-2 draw at Petershill on Saturday. And, said Strain, he’s just the type of player he’s been searching for.

“Mark had an excellent debut and won everything in the air against a big, bustling centre forward,” he added.

“He was strong, firm and decisive in the air and is just the type of player we’ve been needing for some time now.

”Mark stamped his authority on the opposition and his attitude was excellent throughout. He’ll fit in well and gives us a but of a presence at the back.

The big stopper began his professional career with Stranraer before moving to Ayr United where he made over 100 first team appearances in all competitions.

In season 2004/2005 Campbell won a Scottish Challenge Cup medal as well as the Scottish First Division Championship with Falkirk. He then had a short spell with St Johnstone before winning a Scottish Second Division Championship with Raith Rovers in season 2008-09.

In February 2010 he had to be cut from his car after a serious accident on the outskirts of Kilmarnock but made a full recovery and signed for Queen of the South the following year, making 19 first team appearances for the Palmerston Park club before switching to Meadow.